Warning Signs of Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are more likely to have depression than men. Major changes in hormones that occur after giving birth or during menopause can trigger depression, such as postpartum depression (depression after giving birth). Women with postpartum depression may have difficulty bonding with their baby or have thoughts of harming the baby. “Baby blues” are common within the first week or so of childbirth, but postpartum depression is more intense and longer lasting. A rare but severe condition called postpartum psychosis may involve hallucinations, paranoia, attempts at physical harm and confusion. During normal menstrual cycles, hormone fluctuations may cause premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is normal, but some women experience an elevated version called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The bone-thinning condition called osteoporosis may also lead to depression.